Overview of the Incident

In a shocking turn of events, train services at Paris’ Gare du Nord were halted after the discovery of an unexploded World War II-era bomb. The 1,100-pound device was unearthed during routine maintenance approximately 1.5 miles from the train station. This incident prompted the French transport minister, Philippe Tabarot, to reassure the public that “there was no fear of an explosion”.

Impact on Train Services

The disruption has largely affected rail travel across Europe, with an estimated 500 trains canceled, impacting around 600,000 passengers. Major train services including Eurostar connecting London and Brussels to Paris have also seen cancellations. However, Eurostar announced plans to return to normalcy by March 8, with additional trains provided to accommodate travelers impacted by the delays.

Travelers’ Options and Advice

For those affected by the train service interruptions, Eurostar has offered options to either change travel dates or cancel their tickets for a refund in cash or e-voucher form. The process is designed for a smooth experience and will be completed within 28 days. Travelers are advised to check their train schedules and stay updated via the official Eurostar website or social media channels.